Luftwaffe Standard Finial from 1938

One of just a handful to exist outside of museums

The story of how the vast majority of German military standards were captured by the Russians in 1945 is well known. Today, most of these remain within the Moscow State Military Museum. Just a handful of German military standards and parts were taken as souvenirs by (mainly) American servicemen. 

Second pattern Luftwaffe standard finial for sale. Manufactured in a base metal, and with a heavy chrome plated finish. The finial has a design of a large spread winged flying eagle in a 3D form. The eagle has one claw cltutching the highly polished mobile swastika, which sits within a double oakleaves spray. Below the oakleaves spray is the funnel for fitting to the standard staff. The funnel with two holes for screwing the finial to the staff.

Condition report: The finial surving in overall excellent condition, with just light use visible. A small crack visible to the upper arm of the swastika.

Note: An initial Luftwaffe standard finial was brought out in 1936 with a smaller wing span. In 1938, the Luftwaffe standard finial was re-designed with larger outspread wings.

Provenance: Militärische Antiquitäten Weitze. Acquired from this Company for the Collection Lionello. Remaining in the Collection Lionello to date.